What can I plant now?Bedding Plants: Dianthus, pansy, viola, and dusty miller are great options for flowers that do well in the cooler months. To learn more about planting annuals, click Here.

Vegetables: Vegetables can be planted now include Irish potatoes broccoli, kale, carrots, and lettuce. Click Here to learn more about planting vegetables in North Florida. Here is another great resource for Vegetable Gardening.

Bulbs: Dahlia, crinum, and agapanthus are all bulbs to consider planting for the winter months. Click Here to learn more about planting bulbs.

Herbs: Parsley, thyme, sage, dill, fennel, garlic, comfrey, and cilantro do well in the cooler temperatures. Click Here to learn more about planting herbs in North Florida.

What maintenance is required this month?

Lawns: Apply a preemergence weed killer (not a “weed and feed” fertilizer) to avoid weeds growing when the weather warms. The best time to apply the weed killer is when temperatures rise to 65°F for 4–5 days. Click Here to learn more.

Pruning Shrubs & Trees: Consider pruning shrubs and trees that are non-flowering to help maintain good shape and form. Roses may be pruned this month. Also, fertilze them and cover with mulch. Click Here to learn more about care of roses.

Crapemyrtle: Remove any seed pods and prune back any skinny branches on crapemyrtles this month. It's not necessary to do any hard pruning this time of year. Click on the link to learn more about Crapemyrtles. http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/topic_crapemyrtle.

Garden Pests: Keep watching your grass and yard for pests. Even though some die off this time of year, others increase. Click Here to learn more.

Citrus Trees: If temperatures are predicted to fall below freezing, water small citrus trees at least a day before the freeze to protect them. You may also cover them with blankets that reach to the ground for additional protection.

Winter Lawn Tips: If pine needles are falling on your yard, instead of bagging them, consider spreading them in plant beds. Consider turning off irrigation systems for the cooler months. Lawns will only need occasional watering if there is little or no rain during the fall and winter months. Also, evergreen hollies are wonderful plants to add color for the upcoming cooler months. Click Here to learn more about planting hollies.

Always good to...Trim St. Augustine grass at 3-4" high Deadhead flowers to promote growthCheck your irrigation system to ensure plants receive enough water